Work at the Predator Conservation Trust is going well, we’re starting to get busy preparing for the annual football (soccer) camp that occurs in July.  It available to all the primary schools in town, and last year over 600 kids participated.  Coaches from the US come over to run the camps.  The main goal of the camp is to use sport as a vehicle to teach the kids about environmental conservation, as well as promotion of self esteem and HIV awareness. 

I’m watching a lot of football at home with my housemate, he is a huge fan.  Finished the Africa Cup of Nations and watched Egypt take home the title.  It was pretty cool to see.  Maun is getting busier and busier with tourists…it’s a bit earlier than usual, but I’m hearing the influx is due to the upcoming Fifa World Cup in S. Africa.

The group of us went to Chobe National Park a few weeks ago, and it was amazing.  We did a few game drives and cruises, and saw all sorts of wildlife, like herds and herds of elephants, and lion cubs.  The highlight of the trip was going to Victoria Falls, which are one of the ‘Wonders of the World.’  It was stunning, all my pictures looks I was photoshopped in.  We went up through the Zimbabwe side, which is supposed to have the best views. 

Anyways, time to get back to work.  Can’t believe how fast the time is flying by!

Hi, 

My name is Jeff Large, and I’ve almost completed my management degree from the University of Lethbridge, and will graduate upon my return from Botswana.  I’ve traveled outside of Canada, to New Zealand and Australia, and I’m very excited to be going to Africa.

I currently volunteer with Big Brothers, and have done so for the past 2 years.  I’ve enjoyed working with the kids on various projects, and hope to continue this work in Botswana with the youth programs.  I’m majoring in Human Resources and Labor Relations, and this opportunity will be a great way to learn and experience global issues.  It will also be a great way to apply some of the skills I have learned and developed in the classroom.   I enjoy hiking and most outdoor activities, so I hope I have the chance to explore while working at the predator reserve.  Another interest of mine is cooking, and I can’t wait to try some of the local foods.

I chose to apply for the position in Botswana because it will be such a different living and work setting from anything I will experience here in Canada.  I’m excited to meet all the other volunteers, and get started with work.

 Jeff Large